What We Do

OUTDOOR CLEANING & VISUAL IMPROVEMENTS

The DSIC considers the cleanliness and visual appeal of Downtown Schenectady to be an essential part of all other development efforts throughout our district. Ways in which we achieve this goal include:

– Daily sidewalk cleaning (litter, weeds, leaves)

– Installation and maintenance of summer flower baskets & planters

– Installation of banners on downtown light pole

– Snow clearing at crosswalks and intersections

– Installation of winter holiday decorations

– Maintenance of Gateway Plaza and other landscaped areas

The DSIC’s outdoor program is supported by an annual operating grant from the Schenectady County Metroplex Development Authority. The maintenance and beautification of downtown Schenectady is among our greatest priorities and would not be possible without the continued support of our property owners and Metroplex.

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

The DSIC promotes Downtown Schenectady as a regional destination for shopping, dining, recreation, entertainment and living. Our annual events include:

– Schenectady Soup Stroll (January)

– Schenectady Restaurant Week (with Capital Region Chamber – February or March)

– Tater Trot (Spring)

– Downtown Schenectady ArtsWeek (June)

– Wing Walk (October)

– Small Business Saturday (with Capital Region Chamber – November)

– Plus promotional and staff assistance with many other downtown events and activities

Our communications program includes:

– Comprehensive website

– Weekly events e-newsletter

– Downtown Schenectady Visitor Guide & Map

– Outdoor wayfinding maps

– Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages

COMMUNITY & BUSINESS SUPPORT

The DSIC continues to foster important relationships within the Downtown Schenectady community, resulting in numerous professional collaborations, rewarding sponsorship opportunities and essential financial & volunteer support. Programming includes:

– Downtown events: Sponsorships, planning, and staff support

– Grand openings/ribbon cuttings for new businesses

– Informational materials for existing and potential businesses

– Business consultations with referrals to additional resources as needed

IRS Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center – A comprehensive online federal resource to assist small businesses, including forms & publications, tax information, health coverage information, events, webinars and more.

NYS Small Business Development Center – A statewide online resource for business plans, funding, marketing, regulations and more.